NMR exposes lithium battery failure mechanisms

Lithium batteries with very high energy density could expedite renewable energy and green transport if it were not for the dendrite problem. EU-funded scientists, however, used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to identify which conditions lead to dendrite formation and growth, and screen potential fixes to prevent the problem.

Unlike lithium- or sodium-ion batteries that are commonly found in grid storage, electric vehicles and handheld electronics, batteries with a pure metal electrode are not yet rechargeable. During charging, thin metallic structures, called dendrites, sprout from the electrode surface and spread through the electrolyte until they reach the counter electrode. Their formation can pose a risk to the battery safety, causing it to overheat or even catch fire.

Further details: NMR exposes lithium battery failure mechanisms